Jump to the good stuff: The Story | Some Thoughts | The Final Verdict
The Story:
These Peculiar Days is a drama about a group of high school friends who spend the weekend at a remote cabin to celebrate graduation.
Román (Gerardo Del Razo) arrives at the cabin with Imanol (Axel Arenas), who invited him despite knowing that Román’s ex-girlfriend, Isabel (Sofía Sylwin), would be there. The breakup happened after Isabel found Román having sex with another man. Roco (Christopher Aguilasocho) drives up with Óscar (Carlos Hendrick), who was not invited, but Roco brought him because his best friend went to the beach, and he had nowhere to be. Isabel shows up with Renata (Carolina Lecuona), Valentina (Ana Lourdes Zamarrón), and Hugo (Max Thomsen). Although Isabel is upset when she sees Román, she decides to stay and deal with it.
As the group settles in, they talk about Juan Pablo (Isaí Flores Navarrete), who has been missing for two weeks. Valentina asks Hugo if he’s heard anything from him, but he hasn’t, nor has his mother. Also, Óscar, who is Juan’s best friend, has no idea where he is.
As the weekend progresses, truths are revealed, and connections are made.
Some Thoughts:
These Peculiar Days is an incredibly well acted film that explores the inner lives of a group of teenagers. The pacing, cinematography, and script are all on point. It’s one of the most honest depictions of people in the final years of being a teenager that I’ve seen. The subject matter covers the gamut of the teenage experiences, from sexuality to interpersonal relationships.
Although the group of characters aren’t judgmental, some still harbor inner turmoil about their sexual identity. This inner struggle also gives an edge to some of the friendships while playing into the drama that slowly unfolds. There’s also a natural fluidity to their sexual expression that’s refreshing. It shows what we can have when people stop deaminizing each other for sexuality.
Since the film revolves around the characters and their interactions, it relies heavily upon the actors. Thankfully director Chucho E. Quintero found a cast of skilled young actors to bring his vision to life.
The Final Verdict:
These Peculiar Days is a fulfilling drama that will pull you in with its smart story and talented cast.
